School minibus insurance

School trips and sports events are a key part of your pupils’ learning and development – allowing them to explore, play and compete beyond the school gates.

But what if an accident happens on the road?

Our school minibus insurance (available as part of our optional motor insurance) includes cover for costs associated with motor accidents involving school vans and minibuses.

Our motor policy covers:

• Any driver: You don’t need to declare to us who is driving the vehicle.
• Any mileage: We don't restrict how many miles you can drive on behalf of your school.

You can choose from:

• Third-party: The most basic level of insurance. If you have an accident with another vehicle, and are found at fault, you would be covered for damage to the other vehicle. Damage to your minibus, however, would have to be paid for by the school. Compensation for injury or death of passengers travelling in either vehicle is also covered.
• Third-party, fire and theft: This policy includes all the cover provided above, as well as damage to your minibus in the event of a fire, theft or attempted theft. You may need to pay for part of your own vehicle damage by way of the applicable policy excess.
• Comprehensive: The most extensive cover. It includes all the cover provided above plus further protection. If your school minibus is damaged in an accident, you will be covered for the cost of repair, including the windscreen, even if you are at fault. As above, the applicable policy excess may apply.

Can children sit in the front of a school minibus?

Yes, school children can sit in the front seat of a minibus (alongside the driver), but they are required to wear a seatbelt. For children under 14, it’s the driver’s legal responsibility to make sure they do so.

Can teachers drive children?

Yes, teachers are legally allowed to drive children in a school minibus, as long as it is being used for educational purposes and not for hire or reward. Those who passed their driving test before 1 January 1997 automatically qualify to drive school minibuses. Those who passed after this date can typically still drive school children in minibuses, but there are some additional restrictions around vehicle weight.